The New York Knicks’ pursuit of a new head coach is taking a sharp turn, with several prominent names now seemingly off the table. According to Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer, the team could shift focus to less-heralded candidates amid mounting league-wide skepticism.
The Knicks, who parted ways with Tom Thibodeau despite back-to-back 50-win seasons and a third-place finish in the Eastern Conference, have faced resistance in securing interviews with sitting coaches. Chicago, Dallas, Atlanta, Minnesota, and Houston all denied New York’s requests to speak with their respective head coaches.
Chicago reportedly blocked the Knicks’ attempt to meet with Billy Donovan, as first reported by KC Johnson. The Bulls consider Donovan a foundational piece of their organization, citing his communication and leadership throughout the franchise.
The Hawks, according to Shams Charania of ESPN, immediately rejected New York’s request to interview Quin Snyder. Atlanta’s front office is described as fully committed to keeping their coach in place.
Dallas had a similar stance regarding Jason Kidd. Charania noted that the Mavericks “instantly declined” the Knicks’ request, with sources indicating Kidd is off-limits to other organizations.
With those avenues closed, Fischer reported that skepticism is building regarding the potential pursuit of more established figures like Michael Malone or Mike Budenholzer. Malone’s similarities to Thibodeau in temperament and coaching style reportedly raise questions inside league circles.
Instead, the Knicks may be pivoting toward alternative options. Mike Brown, recently let go by the Sacramento Kings, has already been linked to New York. Taylor Jenkins, the former Grizzlies head coach, is also viewed as a highly respected figure still available on the market.
Another name to watch is Johnny Bryant. A former Knicks assistant, Bryant was a finalist for the Phoenix Suns’ head coaching job and spent the 2024-25 season on the Cleveland Cavaliers’ staff. The Cavaliers finished first in the Eastern Conference at 64–18, giving Bryant’s candidacy additional credibility.
While no frontrunner has emerged, New York’s prolonged search suggests the front office may be recalibrating expectations. With several veteran coaches unavailable and playoff-tested names drawing skepticism, the franchise appears open to bringing in a coach who offers fresh ideas rather than an established playoff résumé.
